Meet JMAI student, Rachel! Rachel's a cosmetology student at our Queen Village campus. After she graduates, she wants to work in a salon and would love to do wedding hair and makeup! Get Rachel's beauty school student advice, favorite industry trend, and find out what inspired her to go to beauty school.

Introduce Yourself.

Hi my name is Rachel! I'm 20 years old and from Hershey Pennsylvania. I've been living in Philly for almost two years now and I absolutely love it here! In my free time when I'm not doing hair, I love to craft and spend time in nature.

What inspired you to go to beauty school?

I grew up doing a lot of theater and dance and I would always be the person everyone went to for help with their hair and makeup for the shows. I also was a huge fan of TV shows like "What Not To Wear" and "Face Off" – I love watching how hair and makeup can transform a person!

What is your favorite Aveda product?

For styling, I love the entire Smooth Infusion line – almost every guest can benefit from using it. I am also a huge fan of the Damage Remedy Mask (especially for beauty school students that love to constantly switch up their hair color).

Share your favorite beauty trend.

Right now, I love how bold lipstick colors are in. Anyone can wear any color in any season and I love that!

What is your dream job after graduation?

I plan on working in a salon after graduation. Eventually, I would love to do wedding hair and makeup and travel as much as possible.

Have any advice for aspiring JMAI students?

Attendance is important. Being late and missing days add up quickly, so be sure to plan in advance what days you need to take off. It can be hard to balance school and working in a salon, but it is important to get salon experience while you are still in school.